Hybrid vs. Memory Foam Mattresses: Definitions, Differences, and Benefits

What Is a Hybrid Mattress?

A hybrid mattress, for all intents and purposes, is exactly what it sounds like it is: a combination of two different types of mattresses. You might hear mattresses made with various types of foam being called hybrids, but for today’s article, “hybrid” is going to refer exclusively to mattresses that have both springs and a comfort layer.

What Is a Memory Foam Mattress?

Memory foam mattresses are made of a durable polymer, which is also known as polyurethane. This specific material was created for NASA to use but has transformed into a staple in the furniture manufacturing industry.

Memory foam has a soft feel and slowly compresses when pressure is applied to its surface. Those lying on a memory foam mattress will feel themselves slowly sinking in. Memory foam mattresses have no springs or coils, only layers of foam.

What Are the Differences?

One, and arguably the most notable difference between hybrid and memory foam mattresses, is the construction. Hybrid mattresses always contain some kind of coils, while memory foam mattresses never do. This simple difference results in various smaller, more minor differences.

For example, memory foam mattresses tend to be cheaper than hybrid because coils add more cost to hybrid mattresses. Coils may make the mattresses pricier, but they also add an extra level of support, allowing them to handle heavier sleepers more efficiently than memory foam mattresses, which are incredibly soft.

Hybrid matresses tend to be more breathable than memory foam, as well. This is because air moves through the mattress since there is space between the coils. In a memory foam mattress, the foam is so dense that air can’t circulate.

Benefits

Hybrid

Breathable

The air flow provided by a hybrid mattress is a major benefit because it helps to keep the sleeper on top cool. Heat is generated by the sleeper and whisked away by the air flow.

Support

The coils used in hybrid matresses provide excellent support, which allows them to support larger sleepers, as well as those who are back and stomach sleepers.

Durability

The coils also make hybrid mattresses very durable. They can withstand many more years of use than most memory foam mattresses can, and they won’t start to sag prematurely.

Memory Foam

Pressure relief

Memory foam is ideal for relieving pressure. That’s what makes it perfect for side sleepers. It adequately cushions heavy areas of the body, preventing pressure-related sores and aches and pains. It also contours to the body, helping to keep the spine aligned during the night.

Low level of motion transfer

Motion transfer refers to how well a mattress absorbs motion. Memory foam mattresses absorb motion well, isolating it to a certain area of the mattress, which can be valuable if you share a mattress with a partner.

Quiet

Memory foam is very quiet. These mattresses don’t have any coils or springs that could begin to creak over time.

When it comes to the hybrid versus memory foam mattress debates, it’s important to note the differences, what they are, and the benefits of both.